Eloxatin

Generic name:oxaliplatin [ ox-AL-i-PLA-tin ]
Drug class:Alkylating agents

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Sep 3, 2020.

What is Eloxatin?

Eloxatin is a platinum based cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Eloxatin infusion is used together with fluorouracil and leucovorin, to treat colon and rectal cancer.

It is not known if Eloxatin infusion is effective in children.

Warnings

Eloxatin can cause a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction. Get emergency medical help if you have: rash, hives, itching, sweating; chest pain, warmth or redness in your face, feeling light-headed; sudden cough, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with Eloxatin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to oxaliplatin or similar medications such as carboplatin (Paraplatin) or cisplatin (Platinol).

To make sure Eloxatin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• an active or recent infection;

• kidney disease;

• liver disease;

• heart disease, heart rhythm disorder;

• long QT syndrome (in you or a family member);

• an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium in your blood);

• breathing disorder; or

• a nerve problem.

Oxaliplatin can harm an unborn baby if the mother or the father is using this medicine.

• If you are a woman, do not use Eloxatin if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 9 months after your last dose.

• If you are a man, use effective birth control if your sex partner is able to get pregnant. Keep using birth control for at least 6 months after your last dose.

• Tell your doctor right away if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using Eloxatin.

Oxaliplatin may affect fertility (ability to have children) in both men and women. However, it is important to use birth control to prevent pregnancy because oxaliplatin can harm an unborn baby.

Do not breastfeed while using Eloxatin, and for at least 3 months after your last dose.

How is Eloxatin given?

Eloxatin is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Eloxatin must be given slowly, and the infusion can take at least 2 hours to complete.

Eloxatin is usually given once every 2 weeks. Your doctor will determine how long to treat you with this medici...